The restaurant, formerly known as Melanzana, closed for about a month as ownership changed hands, said Drew Smith, its chef. Andrew Sparkman, Melanzana's co-owner, bought out the restaurant's other owner.

"We waited out the legal issues," Smith said. "It just took some time to get the name changed and everything."

In the time off, management repainted and tweaked menu items, he said. The restaurant kept most of its offerings, including wood-fired pizzas, homemade desserts, such as cannolis, and gelato and more.

More change is on its way, Smith said.

The restaurant applied for a liquor license and will soon offer a full bar. Depending on business, it might also extend its hours.

"We've had a lot of people stop in and tell us they're glad to see we're open again," Smith said, perched at a corner table. "People are very excited."